Name: Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (thinly sliced); 1.5 tablespoons granulated sugar; 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.5 cup warm water (110°F, divided); 1 number egg yolk (lightly beaten); 1.75 cups all-purpose flour (+ 2 tablespoons); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (melted, divided); 8 ounces shredded mozzarella; 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese; 0.25 teaspoon garlic salt; 0.25 teaspoon dried oregano; marinara sauce for dipping

Introduction to Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

Are you craving the delightful cheesy goodness of Pizza Hut's famous cheese sticks, but don't want to leave the comfort of your home? Well, you’re in luck! This copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks recipe will elevate your snacking game to a whole new level and give you the satisfaction of making them from scratch.

Why Homemade Cheese Sticks are a Game Changer

Homemade cheese sticks are not just about taste; they offer a customizable experience that store-bought versions simply can't match. Imagine biting into warm, gooey cheese enveloped in freshly baked dough, perfectly seasoned just for you. When you make cheese sticks at home, you control the ingredients, allowing you to use quality cheese and your favorite herbs. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress friends and family during movie nights or casual gatherings.

Store-bought cheese sticks often come with preservatives and artificial flavors, but when you whip up this recipe, you're guaranteed a fresher, healthier option. With a little elbow grease and love, those melty, golden delights will not only satisfy your cravings but will make you wonder why you ever settled for anything else. You’ll be talking about your cheesy creation long after the leftovers are gone! Looking for precise steps? Let’s dive into the full recipe.

Ingredients for Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Creating the ultimate copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks recipe at home starts with gathering the right ingredients. Let's break it down into two main categories: dough essentials and assembly goodies.

Essential ingredients for the dough

To craft a delectable crust that’s soft yet slightly chewy, you will need the following:

1 teaspoon active dry yeast for that perfect rise
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, thinly sliced to mix beautifully with the other ingredients
1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar to enhance the flavor
¼ teaspoon kosher salt to balance everything out
½ cup + 2 tablespoons of warm water (at 110°F) to activate the yeast
1 egg yolk, lightly beaten for richness
1 ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour for that classic pizza dough texture

Assembly ingredients you’ll need

Once your dough is ready, it’s time for the fun part! Gather these ingredients for the perfect assembly:

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and divided to brush onto the sticks
8 ounces shredded mozzarella for that gooey, melty goodness
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top
¼ teaspoon garlic salt for that delicious garlic flavor
¼ teaspoon dried oregano, adding a hint of herby aroma
Marinara sauce for dipping—an essential companion for these cheese sticks!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to recreate that iconic cheesy treat that you love so much!

Preparing Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Making copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks at home is not only fun but also incredibly satisfying! Picture sinking your teeth into warm, cheesy goodness that rivals your favorite pizzeria. Let’s dive into the steps to create this cheesy delight.

Activate the Yeast

To kick off this delicious journey, start by activating your yeast. In a small bowl, add 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast and let it sit. Meanwhile, warm ½ cup + 2 tablespoons of water until it's about 110°F—just warm enough to awaken the yeast without cooking it. Pour half of this warm water over your yeast, give it a gentle stir, and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You'll want to see it foam up a bit; this means it’s ready to go!

Prepare the Wet Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of thinly sliced unsalted butter, 1 ½ tablespoons of granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. This mixture will give your cheese sticks a rich flavor and nice texture. After your yeast has activated, whisk your butter mixture while slowly adding the other half of the warm water. Remember, it’s okay if the butter doesn't completely melt. Then, stir in the lightly beaten egg yolk and your activated yeast mixture to combine everything nicely.

Combine and Knead the Dough

Now it's time to bring it all together! Add 1 ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to your wet ingredients. Stir until the mixture is just combined, avoiding the urge to overmix. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. This helps develop that chewy, restaurant-style crust!

Shape the Dough in the Baking Dish

Take a 9×13 baking dish and add 2 tablespoons of melted butter, brushing it all over. Spread your dough evenly in the bottom of the dish. You want a nice, even layer here, so make sure to cover the entire bottom. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes to rise slightly.

Add Toppings and Bake to Perfection

While your dough is resting, preheat your oven to 350°F. After the dough has risen, remove the wrap and drizzle the remaining ½ cup of melted butter over the top, brushing it all around. Next, sprinkle 8 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese. Finish things off with ¼ teaspoon garlic salt and ¼ teaspoon dried oregano for that authentic flavor.

Bake your creation for 28-31 minutes, or until the edges are dark golden brown and the cheese is gooey and bubbly. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into strips. Serve alongside your favorite marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy your homemade copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks!

With these easy-to-follow steps, you're just moments away from a cheesy snack that will impress your friends and family alike. Happy cooking!

Variations on Cheese Sticks

Cheesy Garlic Knots

Elevate your copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks recipe by creating mouthwatering cheesy garlic knots! Simply roll pieces of dough into small balls, dip them in melted butter, and sprinkle with minced garlic and parsley before baking them. This twist adds a satisfying bite and an aromatic burst of flavor that makes these knots irresistible. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for an unforgettable snacking experience!

Spicy Cheese Sticks with Jalapeños

If you crave a little heat, try spicy cheese sticks with jalapeños! Chop fresh jalapeños and mix them into your cheese blend before baking. The fiery kick complements the rich cheese perfectly, making these sticks a perfect appetizer for pizza night or your next gathering. Pair your spicy sticks with a cool ranch or blue cheese dip to balance the flavors.

Both variations are fantastic ways to enjoy your newly mastered cheese sticks and impress your friends!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cheese Sticks

Achieving the Perfect Crust

To get that crispy, golden-brown crust reminiscent of the original, make sure to let your dough rise slightly before baking. This extra time allows the yeast to work its magic, resulting in a lighter texture. Brush on plenty of melted butter for that delicious, buttery flavor we all crave in a copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks recipe.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crunch. Microwaving may make them soggy, so stick with oven reheating for the best results! Enjoy your cheesy delights any day of the week!

Serving suggestions for Cheese Sticks

Dipping Sauce Ideas

When indulging in these copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks, the right dipping sauce can make all the difference. While marinara sauce is a classic choice, consider exploring these delightful options:

Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch adds a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy sticks.
Alfredo Sauce: Rich and decadent, this sauce elevates your cheese stick experience.
Buffalo Sauce: For those who love a kick, spicy buffalo sauce brings heat and flavor.

Pairing with Homemade Pizzas

Why stop at cheese sticks? These delicious bites pair beautifully with your favorite homemade pizzas. Think about a classic Margherita or loaded veggie pizza. The cheesy goodness complements the savory notes of the pizza, making for a perfect casual dining experience. For extra fun, try serving your cheese sticks as an appetizer before the pizza feast, igniting anticipation and flavor in every bite.

Time breakdown for Cheese Sticks

Preparation time
Get ready in just 15 minutes. This includes mixing ingredients and allowing the dough to rise. Set up your workspace, and you’ll be on your way to cheesy indulgence!

Baking time
Pop them in the oven for around 28-31 minutes. You'll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and bubbly!

Total time
In about 45-50 minutes, you can enjoy fresh, homemade copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks. Seriously, it’s easier than you think!

Nutritional Facts for Cheese Sticks

Calories

These indulgent cheese sticks pack a tasty punch with approximately 338 calories per serving. Perfect for sharing, they can satisfy your cravings without completely derailing your diet!

Protein

Each serving of our copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks recipe offers about 11 grams of protein. This helps keep you full, making it a great snack or appetizer option that’s both delicious and fuel-upping.

Sodium

Be mindful of the salt content! Each serving contains around 350 milligrams of sodium. While a little salt is necessary for flavor, balancing it with fresh veggies or a lighter sauce can help keep your diet on track.

FAQs about Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Can I use whole wheat flour?
While whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative in this copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks recipe, it may alter the texture slightly. Whole wheat produces denser breadsticks, so you might want to combine it with a bit of all-purpose flour for a lighter result. Experiment and see what works for your taste!

How do I store leftover cheese sticks?
To keep your cheese sticks fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They usually remain good for about 3-4 days. For a quick snack, reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture!

Can I make these cheese sticks ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and assemble the cheese sticks a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you're ready, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. It’s a perfect way to save time for game day or movie night!

Conclusion on Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

In summary, this copycat Pizza Hut cheese sticks recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy a favorite snack in the comfort of your own kitchen. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip up these cheesy treats in no time. Serve them with marinara sauce for a classic pairing and enjoy!